Fabrication and Performance of a SiO₂/CMC-Fe³⁺-Coated Copper Mesh for Efficient Oil-Water Separation

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Oil-water separation is crucial for industrial wastewater treatment and marine oil spill remediation.
• Existing methods often face challenges with efficiency, durability, and environmental impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, high-performance composite mesh for efficient oil-water separation.
• To investigate the structural properties and separation capabilities of the fabricated mesh.

Main Methods:

• A two-step fabrication process involving silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticle deposition on copper mesh, followed by CMC-Fe3+ hydrogel modification.
• Characterization of the composite mesh's hierarchical structure, superhydrophilicity, and underwater superoleophobicity.
• Evaluation of separation efficiency, water flux, durability, and stability under various harsh conditions.

Main Results:

• The SiO2/CMC-Fe3+ (SCF) composite mesh exhibited superhydrophilicity and underwater superoleophobicity.
• Achieved >99% separation efficiency and high water flux (4.019 × 10^4 L·m^-2·h^-1) under gravity.
• Demonstrated excellent durability (>99.5% efficiency after 60 cycles) and stability in extreme pH, salinity, and temperature.

Conclusions:

• The SCF composite mesh offers a cost-effective, environmentally compatible, and highly efficient solution for oil-water separation.
• The material shows significant potential for applications in offshore oil spill management and industrial oily wastewater purification.